Prerequisites of the Program

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in botany, biology, biochemistry, or a related field, with an overall cumulative average of 3.0. Minimal undergraduate course requirements include the following: one year of general biology or plant science or biochemistry; one year of general chemistry with laboratory; one year of organic chemistry with laboratory; mathematics through calculus; and one semester of physics. Students lacking these introductory courses should include a statement with their admissions application explaining how they will obtain such knowledge before their preliminary examinations or M.S. defense. Finally, evidence of laboratory training and research experience is highly desirable.

Applicants must submit the standard University of Massachusetts application form for Graduate School admission. Official Graduate Record Examination scores, official transcripts, and at least two letters of reference must be included. The subject test in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry is optional. For more information, prospective applicants should contact the Plant Biology office by email: pb@bio.umass.edu, or through the website: www.bio.umass.edu/plantbio.